Japanese electronics company Elecom, known for inventing the first oval mouse in 1988, has launched a new device that combines an AC charger with a mobile battery to produce an incredibly versatile power station.
The DE-AC08-5000 is ultra-portable, with a slim design that easily fits into small bags or purses. It has a 5000mAh battery and plug, and supports USB Power Delivery 20W, allowing for fast smartphone charging to ensure you never run out of battery unexpectedly.
Elecom claims that the battery can charge a typical 1800mAh smartphone about 1.6 times and a 3000mAh smartphone about 0.9 times when the phone is off. What sets the device apart from other power banks is that you can plug it into a power outlet and connect your smartphone directly, using it as a regular charger. It supports charging both the power bank and a connected device simultaneously, prioritizing the latter until it is fully charged.
Black or white (with face)
The power plug has a swing-out mechanism, so it can be stored in the main body when not in use. You can check the remaining battery level via a four-stage LED indicator, so you always know how much power you have left.
Elecom's 2-in-1 AC charger and mobile battery is available in two versions: black and Shiro-chan, Elecom's quirky product line, which is white with a cartoon face (as seen in the photo above). The price of both is the same: 5,980 yen, about $37.
Elecom says the device uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that lasts for about 500 charge cycles and includes five protection features: overcharge, overdischarge, overcurrent, short circuit protection and temperature detection. It is also safe for air travel as it meets UN38.3 standards.
